[Artists from Akita Prefecture] A comprehensive showcase from famous popular singers to up-and-coming bands

Spinning CurtainIkoma Rina, Suzuki Ayane (Nogizaka Forty-six)

Nogizaka46 “Guruguru Curtain” Short Ver.

Nogizaka46 became a nationally beloved idol group with hits like “Influencer” and “Synchronicity.” Among them, Rina Ikoma, a former central figure of the group, hails from Yurihonjo City, and second-generation member Ayane Suzuki is from Ogata Village in Minamiakita District.

From the group’s early days, Rina Ikoma led the way—especially in dance—serving as center for many of the early title tracks.

After graduating in 2018, she became the Akita Work Support Ambassador and the image character for NHK Akita Broadcasting Station’s 90th anniversary.

Ayane Suzuki, who loves airplanes and Gundam model kits, has a gentle demeanor and captivates with her dazzling presence.

In 2022, she was cast as the lead in the stage play “The Sixth Sayoko,” raising expectations for her growing career as an actress.

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Flash BackNEVER FADE

NEVER FADE – Flash Back [Official Music Video]

The band NEVER FADE, hailing from Akita Prefecture, was formed by classmates from junior high school.

Among them, vocalist ko-sk, vocalist D.A.1, and guitarist Akitomo are from Oga City.

Although their appearance was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they had been set to perform in 2021 at the local Oga Namahage Rock Festival, which they had previously attended as audience members.

Their vocal style, which conveys a powerful message over a mixture rock sound, is reminiscent of UVERworld.

With rock sounds that race freely in every direction and vocals that balance both coolness and passion, they’re a very impressive band.

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OMG!!ViryKnot

Lunv Loyal, YTG & ViryKnot – OMG!! (Official Video)

A music producer and guitarist from Akita City.

Rooted in rock yet centered on hip-hop, he is a solo creator who provides tracks to acts in Japan and abroad.

After responding to a call on X and contributing to a popular rapper’s project, his talent gained recognition, and he has been building a full-fledged career since the 2021 EP “AKATSUKI.” His appeal lies in sound design that stays firmly “rapper-first” while skillfully fusing aggressive, rock-derived guitar.

The style—sharp guitar riffs cutting into hip-hop beats—is perfect for those seeking stimulation that transcends genre boundaries.

existenceLunv Loyal

Lunv Loyal – Existence (Official Video) [Prod. BERABOW]

A talented rapper from Tsuchizaki Port, Akita City, Akita Prefecture.

He grabbed the mic in his teens and began to stand out in 2014 by participating in a compilation supervised by SEEDA.

He’s now signed to a major label and has expanded his reach from Tohoku to the entire country, successfully hosting events that drew around 200 people at a local club.

His signature tracks include “100” and “Acrophobia Remix.” His rap style blends a cool delivery with a hidden intensity, and his strong connection to Akita shines through in choices like incorporating hometown festival music into his tracks.

He’s an artist who proudly represents his roots and fights for his hometown—and it’s undeniably cool.

Life is scat.T.O.C.A

T.O.C.A / Life is Scat

A three-piece band from Akita City, active mainly in the Tohoku region.

Combining the catchiness of J-pop with the edge of rock, they began their activities in 2014 and released their first single, “3838,” in 2016.

They’ve also made their mark locally, with one of their songs chosen as the theme for an NHK Akita news program.

Their performances at music festivals have received high praise, and they were selected as the opening act for the Oga Namahage Rock Festival.

It’s a band whose playful spirit coexists with a robust sound—a style that’s truly captivating.

Ibuki [Prod. BERABOW / Dir. Kazuyuki Kushima]Rakan

Rakan / Breath [Prod. BERABOW / Dir. Kazuyuki Kushima]

Rapper Rakan from Gojome, Akita Prefecture.

He began his career in 2005 and was selected as the opening act for U-Kasaka-G’s live show in 2014.

He also wrote and performed songs for commercials, including Sushiro in 2016 and Sunstar in 2021.

With an approachable, gentle flow and comfortable rhymes, his music is easy to listen to even for those unfamiliar with rap.

Born from dialogues with junior high school students, “Ibuki,” which sings of the beauty of the four seasons and his hometown, is a must-hear masterpiece.

Beyond his music, he’s a beloved artist who supports his local community through cultural activities such as giving lectures.

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toughnessJETG

JETG – toughness | 03- Performance | From Akita

A rapper from Akita Prefecture, now based in Yokohama.

Centered on the Japanese drill style, he’s a solo artist rapidly rising in prominence.

His cool hallmark is tearing across hard-edged beats with dense, high-speed bars.

Since 2023, he’s been actively releasing music under his solo name, dropping EPs like “JETLIFE” and “progress” in quick succession.

His performance videos have been buzzing on social media, proving his chops beyond doubt.

In January 2025, he also performed at his hometown event, NAMAHAGE UNITED 2025.

Blending street-level tension with introspective lyrics, his music is sure to resonate with anyone looking to experience cutting-edge Japanese rap.